Pope Gregory VII, born Hildebrand of Sovana around 1020, was a significant figure in the history of the Catholic Church. He became pope in 1073 and is best known for his role in the Investiture Controversy, a conflict between the papacy and secular rulers over the appointment of bishops. His reforms aimed to strengthen the authority of the church and reduce corruption. Gregory VII's most notable achievement was the assertion of papal supremacy, which emphasized that the pope held ultimate authority over both spiritual and temporal matters. His famous declaration, "I have loved righteousness and hated iniquity," reflects his commitment to moral integrity within the church. His papacy ended in 1085 when he died in exile.